Mosaics in Piazza Armerina. Photo credit: Sophia Gruzdys
AIA Continental Europe Sicily Conference - Registration Open!
AIA Continental Europe members and Italian Section Leader Sergio Danese, AIA and Germany Section director Barbara DiGregorio, AIA are organizing what promises to be a world-class conference in Sicily, May 25 – 29, 2023. The conference will focus on an overview of the rich history, culture and architecture that flourished over thousands of years along the routes of the Mediterranean Sea and have influenced much of Europe and the world.
The territory is replete with history, baroque and contemporary architecture. Barbara, a native Sicilian, along with Sergio will underscore the culture and lifestyle of this Eastern part of the island from Catania to the La Valle dei Templi through Taormina, Siracusa, Noto, Modica; Marzamemi and Caltagirone. Mount Etna, the volcano and protagonist of this specific territory and the Mediterranean Sea continue to be the seed and soul of Sicily’s culture.
Beginning in Catania, the program will look at the modern architecture and urban design work of Giancarlo de Carlo and the Renzo Piano G124 workshop and their relationship with the territory of the city of Catania and continue with other projects in the Eastern and Southern area of Sicily. We will also meet Mario Cucinella, the internationally renowned Sicilian architect, and have a first-hand glimpse as to how his origins influenced his work throughout Italy and abroad. A late afternoon piano concert featuring the compositions of Antonietta Nicastro will link Sicilian classical and modern music to architecture.
Monday’s extension will highlight Caltagirone, and a visit to Cantine Barbadoro, one of the first net-zero energy buildings designed by Veronica Leone, Vice President of the Ordine deglii Architetti in Catania.
This conference will offer numerous opportunities to meet and renew friendships with AIA members and International Architects practicing in Europe and abroad. Stay tuned for the next update of the Conference program and contents. Registration is open!
Sophia A Gruzdys, AIA
AIA Continental Europe Past President and Chapter Representative, AIA International
